Fintech Licenses – EMI, PI, VASP and Crypto Licensing for Global Expansion
You’ve built the technology. We’ll help you secure the license. From EMI and PI to VASP and crypto licenses, we guide you through the regulatory maze—so you can launch, scale and operate across borders with confidence.
Your Shortcut to Becoming a Licensed Fintech
In financial services, trust is everything—and trust starts with a license. But obtaining the right license in the right jurisdiction is complex, time-consuming and fraught with risk. One mistake can delay your launch by months or derail it entirely. Our Fintech Licensing practice demystifies the process. We help you select the optimal jurisdiction, prepare a compelling application, and navigate regulatory negotiations—so you can focus on building your business while we handle the compliance.
EMI License – Issue E-Money, Operate Payment Accounts
An EMI license allows you to issue electronic money, provide payment accounts, issue payment cards and process transactions. It’s the foundation for neobanks, e-wallets and payment platforms.
What you can do with an EMI license:
- Issue e-money and provide payment accounts
- Issue and acquire payment instruments (cards, tokens)
- Execute payment transactions (credit transfers, direct debits)
- Offer currency exchange services
- Operate across the entire EU with a single license (passporting)
Key jurisdictions: UK (FCA), Lithuania (Bank of Lithuania), Ireland (Central Bank), Netherlands (DNB), Luxembourg (CSSF)
PI License – Payment Services Without E-Money Issuance
A PI license allows you to provide payment services without issuing electronic money. Ideal for payment gateways, remittance services and merchant acquirers.
What you can do with a PI license:
- Execute payment transactions
- Provide money remittance services
- Acquire payment transactions for merchants
- Offer payment initiation services (PIS)
- Provide account information services (AIS)
Key jurisdictions: UK (FCA), Lithuania, Spain, France, Germany
VASP & Crypto Licenses – Operate Crypto Exchanges and Wallets
With MiCA now in force across Europe, crypto asset service providers must be licensed. We help exchanges, wallet providers and custodians obtain VASP licenses and MiCA authorizations.
What you can do with a VASP license:
- Operate a cryptocurrency exchange
- Provide custodial wallet services
- Offer crypto-to-crypto and fiat-to-crypto trading
- Issue and list tokens
- Operate across the EU with MiCA passporting
Key jurisdictions: Lithuania, France (AMF), Germany (BaFin), Italy (OAM), Malta (MFSA), UAE (VARA, DFSA), Singapore (MAS)
Specialized Licenses for Specific Needs
Beyond the core fintech licenses, we also support applications for specialized financial services licenses across multiple jurisdictions.
What we cover:
- Crowdfunding platform licenses (ECSP)
- Consumer credit licenses
- Investment firm licenses (MiFID)
- Insurance distribution licenses
- Trust or company service provider (TCSP) licenses
How We Get You Licensed
1. Jurisdiction Selection
Not all licenses are created equal. We analyze your business model, target markets and timeline to recommend the optimal jurisdiction—balancing speed, cost, reputation and passporting rights.
2. Feasibility Assessment
Before you invest significant time and money, we conduct a preliminary assessment to identify potential roadblocks and ensure your business model meets regulatory expectations.
3. Documentation Preparation
We draft and compile all required documentation: business plan, program of operations, financial projections, risk management policies, AML/CFT framework, IT security architecture and governance structure.
4. Capital Solutions
Most licenses require minimum capital. We connect you with banking partners and introduce you to investors or funding sources to meet capital requirements.
5. Application Submission & Regulatory Liaison
We submit the application, manage all communications with regulators, respond to information requests and schedule interviews with your management team.
6. Post-Approval Compliance
Obtaining the license is just the beginning. We help you establish ongoing compliance frameworks, prepare for regulatory inspections and manage periodic reporting.
Direct & Action-Oriented
Professional & Efficient
Taking the first step toward a secure financial future can be the most daunting. This quick form is designed to make that step simple. By sharing a few details, you’ll initiate a confidential, no-obligation conversation with a dedicated Lincoln Wealth specialist. We’ll listen to your aspirations, answer your pressing questions, and help you map out a clear, confident path forward. There is no pressure, only a commitment to providing you with the clarity you deserve.
